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Welcome to our new associate dentist, Sonia

New Associate Dentist at CK Dental

We’re delighted to welcome a new member to our team at CK Dental. Associate Dentist Dr Sonia Manikam qualified at the University of Bristol in 2017. She then embarked on a four-year Masters of Clinical Dentistry in Fixed & Removable Prosthodontics at the prestigious King’s College London.

As well as general practice, Sonia enjoys and has a special interest in minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry and short-term orthodontics, creating beautiful smiles using a conservative approach. She has a relaxed friendly style to put you at your ease however complex the procedure may be.

Outside of dentistry, Sonia enjoys going for long walks in the countryside and playing the piano. Call us on 0117 905 9866 to arrange a consultation with Sonia.

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How is your dental health? Enter our Instagram competition

dental health

Due to the lockdowns forced into place by the pandemic, thousands of patients have missed their routine check-ups. With everything going on and dental appointments being postponed, it’s easy to forget about your dental health.

Taking good care of your teeth and gums is vital to your overall health. So, how can you look after your dental health while you wait to attend your routine check-up?

Brush twice a day and don’t forget to floss!

It has always been recommended that we clean our teeth twice each day. However, it’s easy to let this routine habit slip during difficult times. While skipping brushing your teeth once a day every now and again isn’t going to harm you, consistently doing it will. So, start by making sure you are brushing twice a day with a good quality toothpaste.

Alongside brushing daily, you should also floss the teeth. This is because flossing gets rid of the harder to reach plaque. Even the best electric toothbrushes won’t remove all of the plaque in your mouth, instead they focus on removing it from the back and front of the teeth. With flossing, it eliminates plaque from in between the teeth and gums. This is where the most harmful microbes live. If left unchecked, they can lead to gum disease.

When should you change your toothbrush?

In order to maintain good dental health, you are going to need to change your toothbrush from time to time. It is recommended that you change it every 3-4 months. Keep an eye on the bristles and replace them when they start to fray.

If you don’t change your toothbrush frequently enough, your teeth could suffer. Frayed bristles aren’t going to be strong enough to remove the plaque. Over time, this would lead to a plaque build-up.

The array of different electric or ‘power’ brushes in the market might be overwhelming, as well as specialist toothpastes and mouthwashes that can be beneficial to your oral hygiene. Your dental hygienist can recommend those that are best for you.

Checking your gum health

Your gum health can have a direct impact on your overall health. Those with gum disease have been shown to have an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, keeping on top of your gum health should be a priority.

There are a lot of ways you can keep your gums healthy at home. Brushing and flossing will go a long way to keeping them healthy. Quitting smoking, using fluoride toothpaste and a therapeutic mouthwash will all help.

Bleeding around your teeth when you brush, bad breath and tooth sensitivity are all symptoms of gum disease. If you have these symptoms, visiting your dentist is the best course of action. They will be able to treat the gum disease, preventing it from worsening.

At CK Dental, we are currently running a competition through Instagram where you can win a free check-up as well as a hygiene appointment that would normally be worth £145. Be quick to enter though as the competition closes on March 26th, 2021. Head over to our Instagram page now to learn more.

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Do braces still exist? Isn’t there an easier way to straighten teeth?

teeth straightening

Braces have long been used to help straighten the teeth. However, they have come a long way since they were first introduced.

Conventional metal braces aren’t the only straightening method available these days. They also aren’t limited to children. A growing number of adults are choosing modern day braces to help them achieve a perfect smile. Here, you’ll discover more about the different types of braces available.

Who can have braces?

The ideal time to wear braces is typically between the ages of 10-14. However, you can wear them at any age. In June 2020, the British Orthodontic Society reported 80% of its members were seeing more adult patients requesting braces to straighten their teeth.

The majority of the time adult patients are seeking to straighten the teeth for cosmetic reasons. However, some patients do need them for health purposes. Whatever the reason for needing braces, the teeth should be in good condition and you should also have good oral hygiene.

What different types of braces are there?

There are a number of different types of braces available today. While conventional metal mouth braces are still used, there are other less noticeable braces you can use. The different types of braces dentists can use on their patients include:

  • Ceramic
  • Lingual
  • Self-ligating
  • Invisible

Ceramic braces are made to match the colour of your natural teeth. They are as effective as metal braces, but they are also just as uncomfortable and they can be expensive. Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth; however, they can be hard to adjust and it can have a more significant impact on speech.

Self-ligating braces tend to offer less discomfort and they can offer a quicker treatment. The downsides are that they can stain the teeth and they won’t be suitable for all patients.

The most recent type of braces introduced onto the market are invisible braces. These are easy to clean, they don’t cause discomfort and it isn’t easy to tell that you are wearing them. You can learn more about these innovative braces below.

What are invisible braces?

At CK Dental, we provide Invisalign invisible braces. These innovative braces offer more benefits than traditional braces. They are especially well-suited to patients who worry about having visible braces.

The Invisalign treatment starts by scanning the mouth to create a 3D image of the teeth. This is used to create aligners that are exactly tailored to your mouth. It takes around a month to create the aligners, which will then need to be changed approximately every 1-2 weeks. A check-up is required every six weeks and it takes an average of 12-18 months to complete the treatment.

A major benefit of these braces is that they cause minimal discomfort. So, if you’re looking to straighten your teeth discreetly and pain-free, invisible braces are a great choice.

You can learn more about teeth straightening, and about our Invisalign treatments, at your initial consultation. Call CK Dental today on 0117 905 9866 to book a consultation with our experienced dentists.

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How can I manage the cost of my dental care?

Cost of dental

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, dentists have remained open for both emergency and non-emergency care. Following the strictest protocols to allow them to work safely, dental practices across the UK are helping people to maintain their oral hygiene.

Keeping on top of oral hygiene is a lot more important than you might think. Cases of mouth cancer have shown to be on the rise in recent years. As February 4th marks World Cancer Day, it is a good time to remind patients the importance of getting regular check-ups.

Of course, the pandemic hasn’t been the only barrier to some patients seeking treatment. The cost of dental care can also be a concern. Here, you’ll discover how to manage the cost of dental care to ensure you get the treatment you need.

How does a payment plan work?

At CK Dental, we offer Denplan payments to ensure our patients can easily manage the cost of treatment. After working out what treatment you need, the dentist will calculate the full costs involved. The total will then be split into affordable monthly payments.

These plans provide a lifeline in emergencies, as well as to those living within a tight budget. It covers hygiene appointments and check-ups and there is the option to customise the plan to include emergency treatment.

It is important to note that not everything is covered by our payment plans. You may need to pay for restorative dental treatments, prescription charges or lab fees for example. It also doesn’t cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening.

Benefits of Denplan

There are a lot of great benefits of using our Denplan contracts. Firstly, it can act as a great preventative tool. As you won’t need to worry about the cost of check-ups, you will be able to visit the dentist more frequently. This will help to identify any potential problems early on, protecting your oral health and your wallet.

The plans available can cover a wide range of treatments, tailored to match your specific needs.

You can also choose to take dental insurance to cover you for emergency dental treatment at home or abroad. No matter where you are, you’ll be able to get the treatment you need without worrying about the cost.

These are just a small handful of the benefits you can expect when you take advantage of our monthly dental treatment plans.

How much does it cost?

Plans start from £15.90 per month, and that includes regular check-ups and hygiene appointments, but the cost of your Denplan will depend upon a variety of factors. Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate quote based upon your individual needs.

To find out more about our affordable payment plans, contact CK Dental today.

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How painful are dental implants?

Dental implants

Dental implants are commonly used to correct missing or severely damaged teeth. Providing a long-lasting solution, they can last a lifetime when properly looked after. However, before deciding whether or not this treatment is right for you, there are a few things you’ll need to consider.

A question we often get asked is whether dental implants are painful. Here, you’ll discover what to expect from this popular procedure.

What are dental implants and how do they work?

Dental implants are used to support false teeth. Aiming to replace the tooth’s root, they are titanium screws which are inserted into the jawbone. For two to four months, a temporary restoration will be provided, and the bone will begin to grow around the implant.

A custom-made restoration is fitted to complete the treatment. An abutment will be fitted into the implant with a screw, before dentures, crowns or bridges are fitted.

Are dental implants painful?

During the procedure, you will be given a local anaesthetic. This should eliminate any pain, ensuring you only feel a slight pressure when the implants are inserted. Work isn’t carried out until the area is numbed.

After the procedure, you may feel some pain and discomfort for a few days. This can be managed with over the counter painkillers. So, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure itself, and minimal pain afterwards.

Of course, everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Therefore, some patients may experience more pain or discomfort than others. You can always speak to the surgeon if you are in pain to see whether prescribed painkillers can be provided.

Tips to help you relax prior to the procedure

For many patients, undergoing dental surgery can be a really anxious and stressful time. If you want to have the best experience, it’s worth following a few tips to help you relax. These include:

  • Consider oral sedation if you suffer with extreme anxiety
  • Bring a distraction
  • Focus on soft foods after the procedure
  • Make sure you schedule time out to recover

Although it is always best to undergo dental implants under local anaesthetic, patients with dental anxiety may be able to opt for general anaesthetic instead. However, it’s best to speak through the pros and cons with your surgeon before deciding whether general anaesthetic is best.

You’ll also find it useful to take a distraction. Dental implants can take a long time to fit. So, consider bringing your favourite music along, or an audiobook. To keep discomfort to a minimum after the procedure, you’ll also want to focus on eating soft foods such as soup.

Finally, making sure you take enough time out to recover is important. You’ll only need a day to rest and fully relax.

Overall, dental implants can help to replace missing teeth and help you regain a beautiful smile. While you may feel some discomfort after the procedure, they aren’t as painful as you might think. There are also several ways to reduce the discomfort and pain levels.

Why not book a consultation today to see whether dental implants are right for you by phoning CK Dental on 0117 905 9866.

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CK Dental is still open

Dentist still open

Following yesterday’s announcement, we want to let you know that as an essential medical service, CK Dental is able to remain open as normal, and patients are still allowed to travel for their dental treatment.

Your safety, our priority

We would like to reassure all our patients that our clinic is the safest environment possible. Since the first lockdown, we invested in a new air filtering system which has the recommended HEPA filter, and is able to filter out 99.97% of pathogens as small as 0.3 microns.

We have had no reported cases in the clinic and we will continue to work within all the government guidelines to keep it that way.

Dental treatment plans

Please make sure you keep your appointment if you have one. If you call us to make an appointment, you will be asked some screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again at your appointment to see if anything has changed since you booked.

We are still accepting new patients too, and we can offer budget payment plans with Denplan Essentials to make treatment more affordable.

How you can help

At CK Dental, we use personal protective equipment including masks, gloves and aprons, and social distancing measures to keep staff and patients safe. You can also help by following these steps;

  • Please do not arrive without an appointment
  • With the exception of children and persons in need, patients should come alone
  • Patients should attend wearing a mask
  • Please do not arrive early to the practice. If necessary, you should wait outside the practice
  • If you show symptoms following appointment booking, you should contact NHS Test and Trace

Please call our friendly team in Bristol on 0117 905 9866 if you have any questions about your upcoming appointment or our budget payment plans.

We look forward to seeing you!

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New Year, New Smile? Win a free, teeth whitening kit!

Teeth whitening kit

This new year, why not treat yourself to a new smile? At CK Dental, our teeth whitening treatment is one of the most popular procedures requested by patients. Helping to remove stains and lighten the teeth, this effective treatment can help get you that perfect smile you have been dreaming of.

Here, you will discover everything you need to know about the procedure and how you can get your hands on a free, teeth whitening kit this January.

The Enlighten whitening system

At CK Dental, we use the Enlighten whitening system treatment to give our patients the smile they have been dreaming of. For 95% of patients, it takes just two weeks to see full results.

The innovative treatment guarantees a B1 shade in up to 98% of patients. You will be given a treatment kit to take home with you, and it will need to be applied each night. After a couple of weeks, you will go back to the dentist for a final check-up.

One of the best things about this treatment is that it doesn’t require extensive maintenance. You will only need to top up the treatment for one night every couple of months during the first year. Then, simply use a top up treatment for one night every three months in the second year, followed by one top up every six months after that.

What are the risks and side effects?

Like any treatment, Enlighten Whitening may cause some potential side effects. However, these are very mild and mostly consist of sensitivity. For a few days after the treatment, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold.

You should avoid undergoing the procedure if you are pregnant. This is because the treatment hasn’t yet been tested on pregnant women so there is no way to know whether it would cause any side effects during pregnancy.

Will my teeth whiten evenly?

Although the whitening treatment is monitored by your dentist, you will be carrying it out mostly by yourself at home.
So, does this mean there is the potential to experience uneven results?

At first, you may notice the edges of the teeth appear whiter. This is because the enamel is a little thinner around the edges of the teeth. However, as you continue the treatment, you will notice the rest of the teeth eventually turn the same shade. So, you won’t be left with uneven results by the end of the treatment.

Bag yourself a FREE treatment kit this January

Let’s face it, 2020 has been a trying year for all of us. That’s why we’ve decided to give one lucky winner a free Polanight whitening treatment kit to help bring a little cheer and kickstart 2021.

To be in with a chance of winning, head over to our Instagram page and give us a follow. Then, like the competition post and tag a couple of friends you feel might be interested in this fab promotion. Your name will be entered into the prize draw for the custom-made trays and Polanight teeth whitening treatment.

Treat yourself to a new smile this new year with this effective, simple teeth whitening treatment.

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Is it safe to go back to the dentist?

back to the dentist

Now that lockdown restrictions are easing, the dental sector is starting to re-open for appointments. However, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), patients should delay routine appointments for the time being. Many dentists don’t agree with these guidelines, particularly due to the concern over serious oral health issues going unnoticed.

So, should you follow the WHO guidelines, or is it safe to go back to the dentist now? Below, you’ll discover everything you need to know to help you decide whether or not to book an appointment.

Is it risky to visit the dentist now?

The truth is it is risky going anywhere right now. Until the virus can be controlled, everywhere can be a potential risk. However, with the right precautions, visiting the dentist doesn’t have to be an overly risky venture.

Visiting the dentist is actually riskier for the dentist than it is for you. This is because a lot of dental procedures produce aerosols which could infect the dental worker. Most dentists will be keeping a very clean practice, following essential guidelines to keep themselves and patients safer. So, yes it is risky, but it isn’t as risky as going to the supermarket for your weekly shop.

Should I only visit the dentist if it’s an emergency?

The WHO has recommended patients should only visit the dentist if it is an emergency. However, dentists have argued that all dental work is essential. This is because without routine care, it could result in serious oral health issues later on.

Poor gum health has been shown to contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Gum health has also been linked to Diabetes and it can help dentists to diagnose a variety of serious health conditions, including oral cancer.

You don’t need to wait for it to be an emergency before you visit the dentist. You just need to make sure the clinic is safe.

Look at your dentist’s safety precautions

Before you decide whether or not to visit the dentist, take a look at your clinic’s safety precautions. How are they addressing the pandemic and keeping their patients safe?

Dentists have introduced a wide range of safety precautions. These include pre-screening questionnaires, temperature checking, the use of PPE and staggered appointment times.

Patients are commonly asked to fill out a questionnaire which primarily looks at identifying if they have any symptoms of the coronavirus. Temperature checking before patients are seen by the dentist are also available at some clinics.

Ideally, your dentist should be using adequate PPE too, reducing your risk of catching the virus from them. So, ask about the safety precautions in place to ensure your appointment will run as safely as possible.

Visiting your dentist is safe providing they are following the right guidelines. So, if you’ve been putting off heading to the dentist, book an appointment today to avoid any issues later. Call CK Dental in Bristol today on 0117 905 9866.

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Invisalign Go – The Clear Teeth Aligner System that gives quicker results

Invisalign Go

Looking for a discreet teeth aligner treatment? Traditionally, braces have been the go-to treatment for correcting teeth alignment. However, thanks to improvements in technology, patients now have a multitude of options including Invisalign Go.

Here, you’ll discover more about this exclusive teeth aligner system, currently offered at 20% off until the end of December…

What is an Invisalign teeth aligner?

Based on the original Invisalign system, Invisalign Go is a revolutionary clear aligner for teeth straightening. Invisalign has helped millions of people transform their smiles.

The clear aligners are practically invisible, making them a preferred option for those looking to hide their dental work. Like traditional options, Invisalign is designed to be worn for a set period of time, allowing it to gradually straighten the teeth.

You will typically need to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours each day, removing them to eat, floss and brush. They will also need to be replaced every 1-2 weeks depending upon your treatment plan.

The benefits of Invisalign Go

There are a lot of benefits of choosing Invisalign Go besides the fact that they are practically invisible. They are both cheaper and take less time to work than other options.

You should find them comfortable to wear too, with most patients forgetting they even have them in. You also won’t need to attend as many dental appointments when you’re using the Invisalign Go system.

As the aligners are custom made to fit your mouth, there is less risk they will fall out accidentally. You will be able to talk, sleep and laugh without worrying about them falling out.

What happens during the procedure?

In order to benefit from Invisalign Go, you will first need to book a consultation. Here, you will be assessed for your suitability for the procedure.

If you are deemed to be an ideal candidate, records of your current teeth will be taken. You will then be provided with a treatment plan within a couple of weeks. Once the plan has been approved, your treatment will start within 2-3 weeks.

You will be monitored every 6-8 weeks to see how the system is working for you. This will last for as long as the treatment plan is running.

Will it affect my speech?

When you first begin to wear the aligners, you may find it difficult to pronounce certain letters. However, you should find you get used to them within a few days and your speech will return to normal.

The Invisalign Go system has revolutionised the dental sector. Phone us on 0117 905 9866 and book a consultation today and take advantage of our 20% money off deal throughout December!

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All you need to know about having your teeth whitened

Teeth Whitening

Trying to achieve that perfect smile? Over time, the teeth can become stained due to exposure to things like caffeine, alcohol and smoking. This can lead to a loss of confidence, especially when you are smiling for photos or talking to others.

Having your teeth whitened can really help to boost your confidence. However, there are a few things you should know before you decide whether or not to undergo the procedure.

Here, you’ll discover all you need to know about having your teeth whitened.

What does having your teeth whitened involve?

At CK Dental, we use the Enlighten system to help patients achieve a whiter smile. It is suitable for up to 95% of patients and it works over a two-week period. In around 98% of cases, it helps patients get to a B1 grade. This is the lightest natural shade you can achieve.

It is provided in the form of a home whitening kit. You’ll take the kit home and use it every night for two weeks. After this, you will revisit the dentist to assess the results.

Can you do it yourself?

The Enlighten system is designed to be used by you, enabling you to do it at home. However, you can’t just purchase the kit, instead you need to visit a dentist. They will prescribe you the kit if you are deemed eligible for the treatment. Before you can use it, they need to take moulds to create customised whitening trays.

Always visit your dentist before following any whitening procedure yourself.

What results can you expect?

When using the Enlighten system, most patients will achieve the lightest natural colour. The current shade, diet and age doesn’t appear to alter the effectiveness of the system. However, not all patients will achieve a B1 shade.

This is because each of us has a saturation point. This means a point where the teeth won’t go any brighter. It is different in each person, which is why a B1 shade cannot be guaranteed.

It’s also worth noting that only your natural teeth will change colour. So, if you have any fillings or crowns for example, these may be more visible after the treatment. You could choose to have your crowns or fillings blended to match the new colour of the teeth.

Is it safe, and will it hurt?

The good news is the Enlighten system is safe to use for most patients. However, if you are pregnant or nursing, you should wait until you have the procedure done. It may hurt, though this will mostly be down to sensitivity of the teeth. Only around 2% of patients experience intense sensitivity during the treatment.

As you can see, the Enlighten system can be an effective way to whiten the teeth. You can do the treatment at home, so it’s a lot more convenient than some other dental whitening systems out there.

Book a consultation with your dentist today to learn more about this exclusive and effective teeth whitening solution. You can call CK Dental on 0117 905 9866 to find out more.

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